The Wikimedia Foundation, the nonprofit that operates Wikipedia, has partnered with BitPay, the largest global blockchain payments provider, to accept Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash donations. All of the Wikimedia Foundation’s work is driven by its vision to create a world in which everyone can freely share in the sum of all knowledge. Accepting payments globally is difficult due to the fractured payments ecosystem and a multitude of payment options. By accepting Bitcoin payments, people can now donate from anywhere in the world cheaply and quickly.
The Wikimedia Foundation had been accepting Bitcoin for several years but recently switched payment processors to BitPay so they can now accept Bitcoin Cash.
“Our donors have shown an increased interest for different cryptocurrencies, so accepting Bitcoin Cash was a natural next step,” said Pats Pena, Director of Payments and Operations, Wikimedia Foundation. “We accept donations globally, and we strive to provide a large variety of donation options. It’s very important that we can get international donations processed in ways that are efficient and cost-effective.”
“Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash are one of the cheapest payment options available so more money goes to charity rather than paying fees. Wikimedia does so much good around the world that it is a privilege to help them raise money,” said Sonny Singh, Chief Commercial Officer.
BitPay works with many of the largest non-profits to allow them to accept Bitcoin donations. Bitcoin donations have increased dramatically in the last couple of years especially at the end of year for tax benefits. BitPay has processed several multi-million dollar donations to non-profits and expects that to continue this year.